Get Ready for a Busy Bank Holiday Weekend: Travel Tips and EV Charging Insights

As the August bank holiday approaches, millions of drivers are gearing up for one of the busiest travel periods of the year. With over 17 million journeys expected between Friday and Monday, motorists are advised to prepare for extremely busy roads and increased demand at EV charging stations.

Anticipating High Traffic

A report by the RAC and transportation analytics firm INRIX highlights that traffic will be particularly heavy, especially during the first two days of the long weekend.

• Friday: Around 3 million trips are expected.
• Saturday: This number spikes to 3.4 million journeys, making it one of the busiest travel days.

To avoid the worst of the congestion, it’s advisable to stay off the roads during peak hours:

• Friday: 10 AM to 7 PM
• Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Monday: 11 AM to 6 PM

The ideal times to travel are late evening on Friday after 7 PM or early mornings before 9 AM and 11 AM on Saturday and Monday, respectively. On the other hand, traffic on Sunday is expected to remain moderate, providing a more serene travel experience.

The Busiest Routes to Keep in Mind

Travelers should anticipate significant delays on popular routes, particularly:

• M5 Southbound: The stretch between Bristol and Devon is forecasted to see heavy traffic. Expect delays of over 40 minutes in the 50-mile stretch from junction 15 near Bristol to junction 23 for Bridgwater, particularly on Friday and Saturday.
• M20 in Kent: This route may also experience queues exceeding 30 minutes.

Nick Mullender, a leader at RAC Mobile Servicing and Repairs, emphasizes the importance of planning:

“We’re expecting major roads leading to airports and coastal destinations to be extremely busy, particularly in the South East and South West regions. If you're routing through these areas, leave as early as possible or be prepared for potential traffic.”

Increased Demand for EV Charging Stations

With the rise in electric vehicle (EV) ownership, it’s essential to anticipate busy EV charging stations this bank holiday. BP Pulse, a leading chargepoint operator, predicts a 5% rise in demand for charging services during this time. To avoid waiting in long queues, they recommend charging during off-peak hours, typically in the early morning or late evening.

Valerio Ferro, the UK General Manager at BP Pulse, states:

“The August bank holiday is always a bustling time on the roads, and with the increasing popularity of EVs, we expect a heightened demand for charging facilities.”

Fortunately, the infrastructure for fast charging has improved significantly over the past year. As of mid-2025, there are over 82,000 public charge points available in the UK, marking a 27% increase from the previous year. Though not all stations operate continuously, they are expected to maintain at least 99% reliability across their networks, minimizing the stress for drivers needing to charge.

Best Practices for a Smooth Journey

To enhance your travel experience and reduce potential stress on the road, consider the following tips:

• Plan Your Route: Use reliable navigation apps to stay updated on traffic conditions. Avoid predictable congestion by selecting alternative routes if available.
• Charge Smartly: If you’re driving an EV, check for nearby charging stations along your route. Utilize our AI-powered car diagnostics software for real-time updates on charger availability, ensuring you’re powered up when needed.
• Flexible Timing: If your schedule allows, consider traveling during less common hours to sidestep traffic.

Conclusion

As we anticipate the rush of the August bank holiday weekend, preparation is key. With millions of travelers on the move and increased demand for EV charging stations, making informed decisions about your journey can lead to a more enjoyable and efficient travel experience. Stay updated, drive safely, and have a fantastic holiday!